No Small Affair

No Small Affair is a 1984 American romantic comedy film directed by Jerry Schatzberg. It stars Jon Cryer, Demi Moore, and George Wendt, three talented actors who bring a unique and memorable touch to the film. The production offers a classic 80's charm packaged with relatable character interaction, teenage enthusiasm, and a strong storyline to maintain interest throughout.

Jon Cryer plays the lead character, Charles Cummings, a 16-year-old high school student with a passion for photography. Charles is intelligent, determined, and a little quirky. He devotes an excessive amount of time to his rustic darkroom, burying himself in the world of photography, where he finds solitude and fulfillment. A chance event intertwines his path with the other lead character, Laura Victor, played by Demi Moore.

Laura, a dramatically bold character, is a 22-year-old aspiring singer struggling to climb the ladder to stardom in the bustling city of San Francisco. Dreaming of a big break in the music industry, Laura adds a captivating layer to the movie's plot with her wild dreams and larger-than-life attitude. Demi Moore’s performance is praised in bringing life to Laura, and her struggles and aspirations become the crux of the movie's plot.

The romantic sparks fly when Charles clicks a photograph of Laura. He becomes enamored with her and decides to use his skills to launch her singing career, believing in the process that this could amount to a love story. The movie embarks on a romantic journey filled with teen emotions, angst, youthful dreams, and subtle comedic moments, most brought about by the character of Charles’s older brother, Leonard Cummings, played by George Wendt.

Leonard, being a bit on the lazy side with a knack for trouble, is an unlikely life adviser to Charles. George Wendt's eccentric portrayal of Leonard adds a perfect balance of humor against the backdrop of a romantic storyline. The dynamic between the unwittingly naive Charles and the unconventional Leonard is both delightful and heartwarmingly humorous, expected from seasoned actors like Cryer and Wendt.

Moving forward, Laura becomes the subject of Charles's most captivating photographs. In his bid to help Laura, Charles manages to orchestrate a series of bizarre plans to showcase Laura's talent. This compels the audience to question - Will his efforts to promote Laura cross the line from innocent teenage infatuation to an obsessive endeavor to make her fall in love with him? How will the age and maturity difference between them shape their story? As these questions propel the plot, the audience encounters a flavorful mix of comedy, romance, drama, and music, giving a distinctively refreshing feel to the movie.

Set in the dazzling cityscape of San Francisco, No Small Affair beautifully marries its metropolitan allure within the storyline. It adds a sense of realism to the plot and makes the narration more compelling, resonating with those who know the vibrant and eclectic city.

The dynamic direction from Jerry Schatzberg brings out the insecurities of adolescent love, the desperation to break into the harsh world of the music industry, and the complexities involved in other crucial relationships surrounding the lead characters. It's a movie that talks about teenage infatuation and adult dreams, love, and a pursuit for recognition in a light-hearted yet poignant way.

In all, No Small Affair offers an enthralling look into the journey of two very different individuals trying to navigate their worlds, filled with hilarious twists, compelling drama, and an inevitable, subtle romance. Packed with an '80s nostalgia, this film stands out with its quirky approach to a romantic storyline and its unique take on a young man's journey from obscurity to maturity. Regardless of the era, this film will entertain viewers with its timeless charm, excellent performances, and its sincere portrayal of aspiration and affection.